DESERT ROSE / IMPALA LILY (Adenium Obesum)
This is a succulent herb which can grow to about 2 m high. The swollen basal stem merges into the equally swollen roots, particularly in older plants. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the branch tips. The 5 petals are joined into a trumpet like structure, with the free ends radiating outwards. The color ranges from red to purple with a white eye or it can be a solid white.
The Mandarin name “fu gui hua” signifies a life of fortune and comfort, the flower of wealth. The Chinese believes that this plant will bring such a life to its owner, hence it is an auspicious plant to cultivate in pots and dragon jars. The cultivars with pink or red flowers are more valued than the white ones as it is believed that the red or brightly colored flowers are like life blood, while white flowers are connected to death and sorrow. The swollen, stout stem base and roots represent fertility and abundance. The plant is also a source of poison, which is used to coat the tip of arrows or for ordeal rituals to determine guilt or innocence.
The Mandarin name “fu gui hua” signifies a life of fortune and comfort, the flower of wealth. The Chinese believes that this plant will bring such a life to its owner, hence it is an auspicious plant to cultivate in pots and dragon jars. The cultivars with pink or red flowers are more valued than the white ones as it is believed that the red or brightly colored flowers are like life blood, while white flowers are connected to death and sorrow. The swollen, stout stem base and roots represent fertility and abundance. The plant is also a source of poison, which is used to coat the tip of arrows or for ordeal rituals to determine guilt or innocence.